The Best Road Cycling Routes in Nice - Cote d'Azur

Starting in Roquebillière, this route is a pure mountain out and back built around the ascent of Col de Turini. The climb rises steadily through dense forest, with long shaded sections that give it a cool, enclosed feel compared to the brighter coastal roads. As you gain height the sense of remoteness increases. Beyond the summit the road remains quiet toward Peïra Cava and along the D73 toward Lantosque, with very little settlement and a strong backcountry character. The return down the Vésubie valley brings a more open perspective, following the river back to Roquebillière and completing a focused mountain ride that feels far removed from the Riviera despite being within the same region.

This ride feels lighter and more relaxed than the deeper mountain loops, beginning with a smooth descent toward the sea before tracing the coastline west toward Cannes. The rhythm is steady and open, with long stretches beside the water and that unmistakable Riviera brightness that makes the kilometres pass easily. From Cannes the road turns gently inland, climbing at a manageable pace through the hills above the coast and passing near Grasse before returning via the Loup valley. The final section feels greener and more sheltered, closing the loop with a calm inland character that contrasts nicely with the open coastal start.

Starting from Menton, this ride has a clear double personality. The first part hugs the coastline into Ventimiglia with open sea views and a Riviera feel before turning inland up the Roya valley, where the landscape tightens and the road begins to climb into quieter mountain terrain. Crossing back into France toward Sospel, the shift from coast to alpine setting feels complete as you begin the ascent of Col de Braus from its eastern side. Riding Braus this way carries a special reward: descending the iconic western face, where perfectly stacked hairpins drop dramatically toward the valley below. After returning toward Nice, the route finishes along the coast past Monaco, bringing the sea back into view and closing the loop with the same Riviera brightness that opened the day.